Lakers News & Rumors Recap: Kobe Bryant Does Everything Better

Kobe can run faster than you, jump higher than you, make a nail biting, sweat rolling down your cheek in sweet anticipation, clutch shot better than you, and now, he can heal faster than you.

When Kobe Bryant had ruptured his Achilles tendon and required surgery, the timetable of six to nine months was set for the his return. But Kobe says he’s on pace to fully recover from surgery much earlier than anticipated. He may even be in the starting lineup against the Los Angeles Clippers on opening night on Oct. 29.

“The normal timetable for recovery from an Achilles, we’ve shattered that. Three-and-a-half months I can already walk just fine, I’m lifting weights with the Achilles just fine and that’s different.”

Size can equal great defense, and Kurt Rambis knows just how to use it. Dwight Howard was lost in free agency, but the team still has a fairly big frontcourt. Pau Gasol, Chris Kaman and Jordan Hill will man the paint for the Lakers, and Rambis would like to see the big men take advantage of their size despite Mike D’Antoni’s offensive system.

“The [Lakers] still have big people and I think you have to take advantage of the big people,” said Rambis in a phone interview with The Times on Thursday. “You can’t ignore them because they are an asset to your offense.”

Lakers Nation wants to pay tribute to the career of Chick Hearn, who broadcasted Lakers games for 42 years. His play-by-plays are synonymous with many fans’ memories, which made LN want to express our favorite Hearn moments on the anniversary of his passing. Check out what we had to say, but also don’t forget to include where Chick touched your heart.